Dear Alumni and Friends,
Some of the most important areas of current development in linguistics involve a more precise understanding of the cognitive underpinnings of human language, stronger reliance on models of natural language in computer science, and deeper awareness of the place of language in shaping social interaction and its direct relevance for social justice and equality. Michigan's Linguistics Department is committed to undertaking these multiple perspectives as part of linguistic inquiry, in both teaching and research. We are committed to an undergraduate curriculum centered on making the results of research in these areas accessible while at the same time providing all our students with opportunities for hands-on experience developing and presenting their own original research projects. Our graduate program attracts many of the best students applying to linguistics graduate programs. Through our students we are also able to take part in shaping the future of the field, and have an impact on its development and contributions to society in years to come.
Over the years, your gifts have supported important research and teaching endeavors. Your continued generosity is extraordinarily important for us to be able to create and take advantage of new opportunities, and to provide key resources for students and faculty to explore and develop innovative ideas.
We also welcome your news and ideas at any point! Each year a number of you write messages or letters to us, or drop by when you're in town; we always enjoy hearing from you and significantly benefit from these interactions. If you're interested in updating us with your current information or news, please contact our department at linguistics@umich.edu. (You can address your messages directly to me if you prefer). Or call us at 734.764.0353.
On behalf of my colleagues and our students and staff, I thank you for your interest in Michigan Linguistics and for your continuous support of our endeavors.
Best regards,
Acrisio Pires
Linguistics Professor and Department Chair
